Netflix has been steadily expanding its Japanese content, and its latest venture into the world of survival competition shows is a must-watch for fans of high-stakes challenges. Final Draft is Netflix Japan’s first-ever survival show, and it has quickly garnered attention for its unique premise and impressive cast. Similar to Physical: 100, Final Draft invites 25 former athletes to test their strength, agility, and mental toughness in a series of demanding physical challenges. These competitors, ranging from sports legends to rising stars, are battling it out for the grand prize of 30 million yen (around $204,000) — a significant amount to help support their families and the next phase of their careers.
In this article, we take a closer look at the diverse and talented cast members of Final Draft, who bring their athletic prowess and inspiring stories to the show. Get ready to meet these incredible athletes who are vying for glory.
The Competitors of Final Draft
Akira Kaji – The Soccer Star
Akira Kaji, 44, is a former professional soccer player and a member of Japan’s national soccer team. Known for his exceptional skills on the field, Kaji has transitioned into the competitive world of survival shows, bringing with him years of professional sports experience.
Atsushi Arai – The Water Polo Champion
At 31, Atsushi Arai is a former member of Japan’s national water polo team. Having competed in both the 2016 and 2020 Summer Olympics, Arai won a gold medal at the 2022 Asian Games. He hopes Final Draft will give water polo players the recognition they deserve. This is Arai’s second appearance on Netflix, having previously been a contestant on the dating show Offline Love.
Eri Tosaka – The Olympic Wrestling Gold Medalist
Eri Tosaka, 31, is a wrestler who won a gold medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics. After retiring in 2022, she joined Final Draft to prove that athletes like her, and mothers, are more resilient than ever.
Goson Sakai – The Footballer with a New Passion
At 29, Goson Sakai is a former professional soccer player who has since traded his soccer boots for an apron, opening a coffee shop. Despite this career shift, Sakai’s competitive spirit is alive and well on Final Draft.
Hozumi Hasegawa – The Boxing Legend
Hozumi Hasegawa, 44, is a former champion boxer with a record of 36-5 and titles in three different weight classes. His fame in the boxing world still resonates, and he remains an idol to many of his younger competitors on the show.
Kaho Mita – The Bodybuilder with Gymnastic Roots
Kaho Mita, 28, originally a gymnast, now competes in bodybuilding. Her journey from gymnastics to bodybuilding showcases her versatility and determination.
Katsuma Yonemura – The Judo Athlete turned Barber
Katsuma Yonemura, 29, has transitioned from being a professional judo athlete to a barber. His goal on Final Draft is to raise enough money to open his own shop.
Kazuhiro Goya – The Rugby Olympian
At 32, Kazuhiro Goya represented Japan in rugby sevens at the Rio and Tokyo Olympics. With a young family to support, Goya is competing to secure a better future for them.
Kenta Tsukamoto – The Hungry Bodybuilder
Kenta Tsukamoto, 29, is a competitive bodybuilder who runs his own YouTube channel. He has a unique perspective on hunger, both in the competitive bodybuilding world and in his desperate desire for the Final Draft prize money.
Koji Tokuda – From Football to Comedy and Now Final Draft
Koji Tokuda, 36, is a former American football player who now pursues comedy. Tokuda’s journey has been full of twists and turns, and now he’s determined to prove his athleticism on Final Draft.
Kouzi (Koji Tanaka) – The Martial Arts Fighter
Kouzi, a versatile martial artist who has competed in kickboxing, MMA, and exhibition boxing, is one of the active athletes participating in the show. He brings an edge of fierce competition to Final Draft.
Masato Yano – The Street Workout Enthusiast
Masato Yano, 31, is a YouTuber known for his street workouts. He brings a mix of strength and gymnastics to Final Draft and is sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
More Notable Contestants
Other remarkable athletes rounding out the Final Draft cast include Masayuki Shimokawa, Naoto Hayasaka, Ryosuke Miyaguni, and many more, each with their own stories of redemption and grit. These competitors are ready to prove that their glory days are far from over.
Why You Should Watch Final Draft
If you’re a fan of physical competition shows like Physical: 100 or Ninja Warrior, Final Draft promises to keep you glued to your screen. With a mix of veteran athletes, lesser-known talents, and compelling backstories, the show offers both high-energy challenges and heartwarming moments of personal triumph. Netflix has certainly struck gold with this diverse and inspiring group of athletes.
Conclusion: Get Ready for an Intense Ride
With Final Draft now streaming on Netflix, fans can expect a blend of intense physical challenges and emotional moments as these athletes give it their all for the ultimate prize. Make sure to watch the series to see who will rise to the occasion and who will fall short.
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